I was not sure how to best handle holds. Through a bit of trial and error I decided that the best solution for my layout would be to print HOLD cards. I printed them so that when they are installed in a car card in front of a waybill, you can still see the ZTS information.

I have just reduced 9 drawers of boxcars into 4 proper storage boxes.

That is a significant reduction of space.

What should I do with all the additional space? More Trains??

This is my “workbench” right now.

While this might come as a surprise to many people, sometime I step out from behind my computer and do something else.

I liked the idea of a ballast bin, but hated my execution, so I am building another embankment for my urban bridge with urban retaining wall pieces.

After taking all the photos, waiting them, adding them into my Car Card spreadsheet, making them look like what I want…
I now have to cut out 220 Car Cards, fold and tape them.

I figured out some shortcuts for all the previous steps, but this next one is going to be a lot of cutting.

I have tried two different brands of water based spray paint, Liquitex and MTN.

I original started with the MTN as it was $1 cheaper per can. But in my experience it goes on really thick.

The Liquitex provides a thinner finish and has more colors available.

I just received a new book. And while I do not have any intentions to rebuild my yard, I am interested in learning more about how to operate a model railroad yard.

Setting up for an operations session on the Riverside Transfer Shortline. Focusing on the important things first.

It’s a gap. (Model Railroad Block Detection)

Weighing down the RR for improved operations.

An image from an operations session on my layout.

Getting my dispatcher panels ready for Model Railroad Operations

Getting the locomotives ready

The HCJX on the D&S

HCJX made it down to Florida!